 Basic Interpersonal Communication Vocabulary Exchange When you exchange something, you give something and get something at the same time. For example, when you shop, you exchange money for the items you buy. Interpersonal Communication Interpersonal Communication is the exchange of information between two people. Working with a partner or in a group is a type of interpersonal communication. Verbal Communication Verbal communication means that you talk using words and sounds. Talking on the phone and asking questions in class are types of verbal communication. Nonverbal Communication Nonverbal Communication means using your body to communicate. Raising your hand or nodding your head are types of nonverbal communication. Tone of Voice Tone of Voice means how a person says something. If someone is happy or angry, you can usually tell based on their tone of voice. Nod your head When you nod your head, you move it up and down. People sometimes nod their heads to show agreement. This is a form of nonverbal communication. Shake your head When you move your head from side to side very quickly, you shake your head. People sometimes shake their head to say no. This is a type of nonverbal communication too. Eye Contact When you make eye contact, you look another person in the eyes. In some cultures, it is rude to make eye contact. But in other cultures, it is polite to make eye contact. Gestures Gestures are made by giving signals using your hands or other parts of your body. They are a type of nonverbal communication. Waving or pointing are types of gestures. Furrow your brow When you furrow your brow, you move your eyebrows close together. You can tell when someone is confused because they will furrow their brow. Personal space Personal space means the amount of distance you like to have between yourself and others. Some people like a lot of personal space, but others do not mind if you stand close. Have a deal Have a deal means you have an agreement with someone. For example, if you agree to take your son to a movie after he cleans his room, you have a deal with your son. The End